CLEP Chemistry

Category - Multiple Choice

What is the oxidation state of chlorine in potassium perchlorate, KClO4?
  1. -7
  2. -3
  3. 0
  4. 3
  5. 7
Explanation
Answer: 7

Begin this problem by considering the oxidation state of oxygen. As in most oxides, oxygen has an oxidation state of -2. Multiply this value by four to account for all of the oxygens, giving a total oxidation value of -8. Potassium has an oxidation state of +1, bringing the total oxidation value to -7. In order to maintain electrical neutrality, chlorine must have an oxidation state of +7.
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